Confusion in the form of Nicknames

So what's the deal with nicknames anyway?

If I were a comedian that line was the intro and the punch line would be next.

Obviously, I'm not a comedian so therefore a punch line is not on its way.

I honestly want to know what the deal is with nicknames.  

Nicknames are generally given as terms of endearment symbolizing acceptance.  They are something that is usually desired as it helps build a bond or connection in a relationship.

Since we are now on the same page about what I believe a nickname is, I have a confession to make.  I get extremely confused when it comes to giving or receiving nicknames and thus I would like a copy of Nicknames for Dummies, or the always popular self help book How To Properly Communicate Using Nicknames.  

I don't get confused regarding the cute little names given to us by our closest family members spurring from an awkward childhood habit or moment.  I'm talking about the obvious shortened version that derives from ones actual name.

Here I'll show you...

Let's pretend for pretending sake that my first name isn't actually Just.  Let's pretend that it is Lindsey (some of you are laughing at me right now).  Lindsey is a name that is very easily truncated forming the nickname Linds.  Now, Linds doesn't fit into the childhood given nostalgic names category.  It also isn't necessarily symbolizing respect or acceptance.  In fact, Linds is basically just short.  So all it would really tell me is that you are too lazy to call me Lindsey.

Now wait.  Don't get offended or upset at me yet.  Sure I just called you lazy for every time you called your acquaintance Ashley, just Ash or Matthew, the coffee shop boy, just Matt but I have a point.

Which I'll get to now.

I do in all actuality have a name that is easily shortened.  When somebody says something to me and  throws in the shortened name like,  "Thanks Linds." or "Are you coming Linds?" (I'm sticking with the above example name, less tricky) I can't help but feel a little twinge of happiness.  No matter whom is may be that is saying it and despite my understanding that the shortened version is really just more convenient to say.  Something happens every time.

Maybe it's the first time a new friend says the short nickname and it strengthens that small bond.

Or a guy I've just begun dating tucks a strand of hair behind my ear as he breathes the nickname.

When your sister calls and leaves a quick message that simply says, "Call me back Linds." and your heart is calm because when family members say that name all the world is whole for a split second.

Oh, or when my boss slaps the nickname at me as she passes me in the hall.  Buzz kill.

The point of all this non stop jabber is this.  Names are significant to its owner.  They're personal.  They mean something and sometimes when someone uses the name that signifies acceptance, they may have prematurely infringed on something a little personal.  Usually I only feel that way if it is someone I don't like that says it but it still happens.

How can you know when it is okay to change some one's name, even slightly?  When is an appropriate time to cut some one's name in half?  What if they don't want their name shortened because they feel it slaughters it?  What the hell am I supposed to call everyone?  WHAT?

Found here.

I guess I'll just repeat myself....

What's the deal with nicknames anyway?